I recently visited Monongalia County Ballpark in Morgantown, West Virginia, and I’m excited to share my thoughts. This ballpark is home to the West Virginia Black Bears and WVU baseball teams. As a big baseball fan, I was looking forward to catching a game here.
The ballpark itself is a nice structure with some praiseworthy features, but the overall game experience left me feeling a bit let down. While the field is impressive and the location is great, there were some aspects that didn’t quite meet my expectations.
I found the seating to be just okay, which surprised me for a relatively new stadium.
Despite these mixed feelings, I think Monongalia County Ballpark is worth checking out if you’re in the area. The ticket prices are reasonable, and it’s a good spot to enjoy some minor league baseball action.
I’ll go into more detail about my experience in the rest of this review, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your next baseball outing.
Key Takeaways
- Monongalia County Ballpark has a nice structure but a mixed game experience
- The field and location are highlights, while seating comfort could be improved
- It’s an affordable option for watching minor league baseball in Morgantown
History and Background
I’m excited to share the story of Monongalia County Ballpark. This amazing stadium has a rich history tied to college and minor league baseball in West Virginia. Let’s take a look at how it came to be and the teams that call it home.
Construction and Development
Ground was broken for Monongalia County Ballpark on October 17, 2013. I find it fascinating that the ballpark was built at University Town Centre, a shopping area near Morgantown.
The stadium has 2,500 fixed seats, plus extra spots on the hills and in club areas.
When I visited, I was impressed by the fan amenity deck. It really adds to the experience. The whole project came together quickly – West Virginia University’s team played their first game there on April 10, 2015.
West Virginia University and WV Black Bears
I love how this ballpark serves two teams. The WVU Mountaineers baseball team from the Big 12 Conference plays their home games here. It’s been a huge boost for their program.
The West Virginia Black Bears also call this park home. They played their first game on June 19, 2015. While they lost that day, it was still a historic moment.
I think it’s cool how college and pro teams share the facility. It brings different types of baseball fans together in one place.
New York-Penn League and Minor League Park
When it opened, Monongalia County Ballpark was part of the New York-Penn League. This short-season league was a great fit for the new Black Bears team.
The stadium quickly gained a strong reputation. I’ve read that some baseball experts called it the “best short-season ballpark in the minors.” That’s high praise!
Today, the Black Bears play in the MLB Draft League. It’s a showcase for top amateur players. I think this change has brought even more excitement to the ballpark.
Stadium Overview
I love the layout and features of Monongalia County Ballpark. It’s a modern facility with great amenities for fans. The stadium has comfortable seating, a top-notch playing surface, and nice touches that make it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Seating and Capacity
The ballpark has one main seating level that wraps around the infield. I found the blue chair-back seats to be really comfy. They extend past both dugouts, giving great views of the action.
An overhang covers part of the seating area, which I appreciate for shade and rain protection. I’d guess the capacity is around 3,500-4,000 fans.
The intimate size makes it easy to see the game from any seat. I like how close you feel to the field, even in the upper rows.
Turf Field
The playing surface is artificial turf, which looks pristine. I noticed how even and consistent the field appears compared to natural grass.
The turf allows for great drainage, so rainouts are less likely. Players seem to move smoothly on the surface during games.
Colorful turf areas in foul territory add nice visual appeal. The outfield wall has a classic green padding that contrasts well with the turf.
Amenities and Accessibility
I’m impressed by the stadium’s amenities. There are plenty of concession stands with typical ballpark fare. Clean restrooms are easily found.
For accessibility, I saw ramps and elevators to help fans reach all areas. There’s wheelchair seating available in different sections.
A spacious concourse circles the seating bowl. It’s wide enough to move around easily, even when it’s crowded. I like the open design that lets you see the field while walking.
Location and Accessibility
I found Monongalia County Ballpark easy to get to. The stadium has good parking options nearby. It’s in a spot that’s simple to find for most visitors.
Getting There
I had no trouble finding the ballpark. It’s right off Interstate-79, which made my drive a breeze. The stadium sits in Granville, just outside Morgantown. I liked how close it was to the highway exit.
Signs pointed me in the right direction as I got closer. Even if you’re not familiar with the area, you shouldn’t get lost. The ballpark is visible from the road, which helped me spot it quickly.
Parking Information
I was happy to see plenty of parking spaces near the stadium. There are lots on both sides of the ballpark. I noticed they were paved and well-lit, which made me feel safe.
If you have mobility issues, don’t worry. I saw accessible spots close to the entrance. The walk from the car to my seat was short and smooth. Just be sure to arrive early on game days to snag the best spots.
Game Day Experience
Going to a Black Bears game at Monongalia County Ballpark is a treat. The views are amazing, and there’s plenty to keep fans of all ages happy. I love the lively atmosphere and family-friendly vibe.
Sights and Sounds
The ballpark has stunning mountain views that take my breath away. I can’t help but be awed by the scenery as I watch the game. The field itself is top-notch, and I’ve never had a bad seat.
The crowd noise adds to the fun. Cheers erupt with every hit and great play. I enjoy hearing the crack of the bat and the pop of balls hitting gloves.
Between innings, upbeat music keeps the energy high. The PA announcer’s voice booms through the speakers, adding to the excitement.
Family Entertainment
Kids have a blast at Black Bears games. There’s a play area where little ones can burn off energy. Mascots roam the park, high-fiving fans and posing for photos.
I love watching the on-field games between innings. Contestants race in silly costumes or try to catch fly balls. It’s always good for a laugh.
The team often holds autograph sessions. It’s a great chance for young fans to meet their favorite players. I’ve seen plenty of kids leave with huge smiles and signed baseballs.
Special Outing Nights
The Black Bears go all out with theme nights. I’ve been to superhero nights where fans dress up as their favorite characters. Fireworks shows after some games are spectacular against the mountain backdrop.
Dollar hot dog nights are a big hit. I can stuff myself without breaking the bank. They also do giveaways, handing out team gear to early arrivals.
Some nights feature local groups performing. I’ve seen school choirs sing the anthem and dance troupes entertain the crowd. It adds a nice community touch to the games.
Food and Concessions
At Monongalia County Ballpark, I found a great mix of classic ballpark fare and local specialties. The concession stands offer tasty options at reasonable prices, making it easy to enjoy a meal while watching the game.
Concession Stands
I noticed several concession stands around the ballpark serving up familiar favorites. Hot dogs, burgers, nachos, and popcorn are all available for hungry fans. The prices seemed fair to me, with most items costing around $5-7.
I was happy to see some healthier choices too. Wraps, salads, and fruit cups provide lighter options for those watching their diets. For drinks, I found sodas, bottled water, and even a few beer selections.
The lines moved quickly at most stands, so I didn’t miss much of the action. I appreciated the friendly staff who were always ready with a smile.
Local Flavors
My favorite part was trying some of the local specialties. The pepperoni rolls really stood out – they’re a West Virginia favorite and only cost $5. I found them at all the main concession areas.
I also enjoyed some other regional treats. There was homemade apple butter, which paired nicely with fresh biscuits. For dessert, I tried the local ice cream, which hit the spot on a warm day.
These unique items gave me a taste of West Virginia culture right at the ballpark. It was a fun way to experience the local flavors while enjoying America’s pastime.
Community and Culture
Monongalia County Ballpark brings people together through baseball. The team connects with fans and follows rules to make games fun for everyone.
Team and Community Engagement
I love how the West Virginia Black Bears interact with fans at the ballpark. After games, I often see players meeting fans and signing autographs. It’s a great chance for kids to meet their favorite players up close.
The team hosts special events too. I’ve been to themed nights and giveaways that make the games extra exciting. Local charities sometimes set up booths, which helps spread awareness for good causes.
On non-game days, the ballpark hosts community events. I’ve attended youth baseball clinics and concerts there. It really feels like the heart of our community.
Community Guidelines
When I go to games, I notice clear rules posted around the park. These help keep everyone safe and having fun. Some key guidelines I’ve seen:
-
No outside food or drinks
-
No offensive language
-
Respect other fans’ space
-
Don’t interfere with balls in play
The staff is always friendly when reminding people about the rules. I appreciate how they keep things family-friendly without being strict.
There are also great amenities for all fans. I’ve seen:
-
Accessible seating areas
-
Family restrooms
-
A kids’ play zone
These features make the ballpark welcoming for everyone in our community.
Visitor Tips and Recommendations
I’ve got some handy advice to make your trip to Monongalia County Ballpark awesome. These tips will help you pick the perfect time to visit and make the most of your day at the park.
Best Times to Visit
I find that weekday evenings are great for catching a game. The crowds are smaller, and the atmosphere is more relaxed.
If you’re into weekend games, try to arrive early. I usually aim for about an hour before first pitch.
Summer months can get hot, so I prefer games in late spring or early fall. The weather’s milder, making it comfy to sit and enjoy the action.
Night games are my favorite – the lights add a magical touch to the ballpark.
General Tips and Tricks
I always check the Monongalia County Ballpark website before heading out. It’s got the latest info on game times and special events.
Parking can fill up fast, so I like to arrive early.
I usually spend about 2-3 hours at the park for a full game. Bringing a light jacket is smart – even on warm days, it can get chilly in the evening.
Don’t forget your sun protection! I always pack:
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
Food at the park is tasty, but I sometimes bring my own snacks to save money. Just check the park’s rules first.
Lastly, I never miss a chance to grab a free giveaway – they often have cool team merch on special nights!
Ticketing and Merchandise
Getting tickets and gear at Monongalia County Ballpark is easy and fun. I’ll share what I’ve learned about buying tickets and finding cool team merchandise.
Purchasing Tickets
I found that buying tickets for Mountaineers games is a breeze. The ticket office is right next to the main gates, making it super convenient. I like to grab my tickets early to get the best seats.
For big games, I make sure to buy in advance. The prices are pretty good, especially on special nights.
I once went on teacher appreciation night and got a great deal!
Online tickets are available too. It’s handy when I can’t make it to the box office. Plus, I can pick my exact seat from the comfort of home.
Team Merchandise and Souvenirs
I love showing off my team spirit with Mountaineers gear. The ballpark has a great selection of t-shirts, hats, and jerseys. I always stop by the team store to see what’s new.
During games, I’ve noticed merchandise booths around the concourse. It’s perfect for grabbing a souvenir on the way to my seat.
My favorite items are the game-day programs and team photos. They make great keepsakes.
For the kids, there are fun foam fingers and mini bats.
I’ve found the prices to be fair. There’s something for every budget, from small trinkets to authentic jerseys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Monongalia County Ballpark offers a great experience for baseball fans. I’ll answer some common questions about the stadium to help you plan your visit.
What are common visitor impressions of Monongalia County Ballpark?
Many fans love the modern feel and great views at Monongalia County Ballpark. I’ve heard people say it’s one of the best minor league parks they’ve been to.
The blue seats and covered grandstand get lots of praise. Visitors often comment on how clean and well-maintained the park is.
Can you share some tips for a first-time visit to Monongalia County Ballpark?
I suggest arriving early to explore the park. You can park for free in the lot next to the stadium.
Bring a hat and sunscreen if you’re sitting in the sun. The seats behind home plate offer great views of the action.
What amenities are available at Monongalia County Ballpark for families?
The park has plenty for families to enjoy. There’s a kids’ play area where little ones can burn off energy.
I’ve seen mascots walking around, which kids love. The concession stands offer kid-friendly food options too.
How does Monongalia County Ballpark accommodate fans during major league games?
The park mainly hosts minor league games for the West Virginia Black Bears. It doesn’t typically host major league games.
For big games or events, they might add extra seating or amenities. But that’s not common.
Are there any signature food items or concessions to try at Monongalia County Ballpark?
I always enjoy the classic ballpark foods here. Hot dogs, popcorn, and nachos are popular choices.
Some stands offer local specialties, but I don’t know of any famous signature dishes. The beer selection is pretty good too.
What’s the best way to get tickets for a game at Monongalia County Ballpark?
You can buy tickets online through the team’s website. It’s easy and lets you pick your seats.
If you prefer, you can also get tickets at the box office on game day. Just make sure to arrive early for popular games.